Proposed California Budget to Benefit Community Colleges

Today, Governor Jerry Brown announced his proposed budget for the 2014-2015 fiscal year. He wants to reduce the state's debt by more than $11 billion. A lot of emphasis is being put into education with this proposed budget, and with that, a lot more attention is being given to community colleges.

In the proposed budget, Brown calls for "fiscal restraint". When it comes to education, he says the dollars will be flowing freely.

"The good news is that we're putting $10 billion into the schools of California," Gov. Brown said at a press conference earlier today.

Community colleges stand to benefit. State funding for California Community Colleges will increase by 11.4 percent for the 2014-2015 fiscal year. By comparison, the UC system and Cal State system will see funding increases around 5 percent each.

2.3 million students statewide attend community colleges, and low completion rates have plagued the system as of late. The new budget states that more emphasis will be given to preparing students to transfer to 4-year universities.

Allan Hancock College released a statement on the proposed budget:

It is good news that the preliminary report regarding the governor’s proposed budget includes an increase for the California Community Colleges. We welcome any and all funds that will allow greater access for students. This includes funding that will allow the college to offer enough classes so that students can move through their programs of study efficiently and either transfer to a university go to work. Community colleges are the state’s economic engine. The more students we can educate and train, the more their efforts will help build our economy. Supporting the community colleges is smart business and the governor understands that.